Walls that talk

Neisha Crosland’s new range of wallpapers for Turnell & Gigon harks back to her earliest memories and references architecture and decor styles from afar.

Entitled Wallpaper 7, the range consists of six geometric designs and two large-scale florals, each of which are available in six or seven colour variations.

The colours are inspired by Neisha’s childhood memories of gold-tipped Sobranie cocktail cigarettes, confectionary-coloured enamel Swedish matchboxes, her grandmother’s delicate espresso spoons and Robert Adam’s painted walls and plasterwork.

The geometric designs are reminiscent of North African tiles, Fez pots, basket weaves, Moorish architecture, decorative details of tadelakt (polished plasterwork) and zellij (mosaic), while the florals are influenced by 1920s Paul Poiret embroidery, Jacobean paisley and the symbol of the Indian Tree of Life.

This mixed bag of influences results in luxurious and delicate wallpapers that add sophistication with a hint of the exotic.

Wallpaper is one of the easiest ways to add character to a room. Here are seven tips to make sure yours is pasted on perfectly:

1. Ensure that all the chips, cracks and holes in your wall are filled and smoothed.

2. Clean your wall thoroughly and leave to dry completely.

3. Ensure your walls are primed or painted, to ensure the wallpaper sticks.

4. Always work on a clean, dry and flat surface.

5. Choose less visible areas for the seams of your wallpaper. The focal point of your wall should be free of joins.

6. Always use quality adhesives and wallpaper.

7. Many wallpapers can fade in direct sunlight so choose an area that is not competition with the elements.

The Neisha Crosland Wallpaper 7 range is available from The Silk and Cotton Co.

More information: www.silkco.co.za, 011 448 2578